A community focussed on positive change
Aspect Members sit at the epicentre of discovery, imagination and progress in the social sciences, humanities and arts
The Aspect Network launched in 2018 with funding from Research England’s Connecting Capability Fund. In 2023 we transitioned into a member-funded organisation continuing our commitment to testing ideas, piloting new approaches and developing tools and resources that share insights and learnings across the community
Organisations
We form a collective of organisations committed to elevating the visibility and significance of research within the social sciences, arts, and humanities by aiding academics in translating their research into ventures. Together, we foster collaboration among academics, businesses, and industries, igniting inspiration and promoting SHAPE innovation while enhancing capacity and expertise in SHAPE research commercialisation
Individuals
Within our organisations, we are a community of individuals driven by a passion for advancing the vibrant frontier of SHAPE. Whether seasoned professionals or newcomers to the field, we unite in participation, collaboration, and learning. Together, we cultivate, share, and exchange knowledge and best practices, empowering personal growth and organisational advancement
Online
As a globally connected and environmentally conscious community, a significant portion of our engagements occur virtually. This includes our biannual Aspect Members Forums, where the entire community convenes to exchange updates and insights. Additionally, our monthly Community of Practice gatherings, accessible to all members, are conducted online, concentrating on key areas like Business Engagement, Entrepreneurship, Research Commercialisation, and Knowledge Exchange Communications. These sessions feature guest knowledge shares from diverse organisations spanning various sectors and are a great way to become familiar with the scope of SHAPE innovation and the activities of the ecosystem
In person
While online interactions offer a great convenience, nothing quite compares to in-person meetings. We seize opportunities throughout the year to gather either at member locations or relevant events, hosting cultivation gatherings that we call SHAPE Salons. These events serve as platforms to showcase firsthand experiences and opportunities in SHAPE innovation from active practitioners. Our primary assembly culminates at reSHAPE every autumn, where innovators and key stakeholders converge for an unparalleled event experience